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HOT SPRINGS, Ark. - Early voting is now underway in a bond election for funding of an expansion at the Mid-America Museum.

The museum is seeking a 10-year bond for $2 million to cover the construction costs of a new exhibit hall.

This is not a new tax. The money is collected by the Hot Springs Advertising and Promotion Commission. Voters must simply approve the use of the collected funds.

Mid-America Science Museum plans to build a new 7,000 SF exhibit space, making it the largest science exhibit venue in the state of Arkansas. As a Smithsonian Institution affiliate, the museum will have access to several of its most popular traveling exhibits. The space will also be available to host conferences and special events. Expansion plans also include a portable stage, ample storage, restrooms, coat check, and food prep area for catering companies.

"Hot Springs kids are missing out on amazing, life-changing opportunities. We can fix that without adding any new taxes. From the depths of the Titanic to the farthest reaches of the imagination, traveling exhibits are engaging audiences across the U.S. daily. Unfortunately, these learning opportunities aren't currently available to students in Hot Springs," the museum says.

Initial planning for the expansion has been made. When approved by voters on September 11, 2018, the anticipated completion will occur in 9-12 months with a tentative opening in Fall/Winter 2019.

The 2015 renovation by the Donald W. Reynolds Foundation allowed Mid-America Science Museum to update its existing facility. While the renovation added new permanent exhibits, the museum no longer has the capacity to house traveling exhibits (like Bodies in 2008).

The election is open to all registered voters residing within the city limits of Hot Springs. Early voting (8 a.m. - 5 p.m.) takes place at the Garland County Election Commission at 649 Ouachita Avenue.